Why do we have a School's Council?

The School’s Council is an ideal opportunity for pupils to get more involved in the way the school is run. The School Council benefits the whole school, pupil and teachers, because it provides opportunities for pupils to communicate their feelings as well as influence decisions that are made. Councillors develop skills such as confidence, communication and negotiation. It is the responsibility of each Councillor to ensure that they express both their own views of all the other pupils they represent.

As there are so many classes in Ashton Gate, we run two School Councils; KS1 and KS2. We aim to meet at least once per term and hold a few joint school meetings throughout the year.

School Council 2023/2024

Each of our classes has a nominated school councilor. So far we have had two meetings and the councilors have impressed us with the maturity and cooperation they displayed when working together. They have suggested some excellent ideas to improve our school playgrounds and our lunch menus

If you have ideas about how we can improve the school, please talk to your class rep.

Our 2022-2023 School Councillors

Class Councillors of 22/23 had a brilliant year - they have been passionate, enthusiastic and dedicated. They have shared ideas, listened to each other, made democratic decisions and made changes to improve 'their' school. 

Some of the projects they have been involved with last year:

• House captain roles and suggestions to House cup and how it is ran
• Football nets and rota
• Play ground game ideas
• Project Zulu 
• Lunch line orders

2021-2022 School Councillors

What do we talk about in KS1 school council meetings?

During our first school council meeting, the children were asked to reflect on their first term in a new year group.  A discussion about the role of a school counsellor and the impact it has on school life.  What they thought about lunchtime, including the new sports equipment and menu.  We talked about playtimes, friendships, Mental Health day and fundraising ideas for the forthcoming Children in Need event. 

KS2 Meetings

• Unanimous decision that Fidget toys be banned - actioned immediately!
• Friendship benches to be recognised and used properly again - video made and watched in classes.
• Competition for designs to brighten the lunchtime dining hall
• Worry boxes set up in classes
• Healthy snacks reminders in the newsletter
• School meals feedback - sausages returned to the menu! Soup offered. 
• Welcome party for the whole school Jubilee party 

Previous projects

Over the years, the School Council have done an amazing job to help make a difference to the school. Some of their bigger projects have included; informing a wellbeing report once back in school after lockdown; organising a competition and helping to paint friendship benches for the playground; making Playground 'Chill out boxes'; organising many charity events and a whole school BBQ; regular input to design the menus; submitted plans for new playground equipment (including the graffiti in the Upton playground); road safety audits; gaining new PlayPod equipment; names for the new houses and improved signage in the toilets.